Application of the embedded element technique to predict interlaminar failure

In this study a modelling technique, namely, the embedded element method is assessed to evaluate its ability to predict Mode I interlaminar failure. The embedded element technique takes advantage of the embedded constraint in ABAQUS and allows the two constituents, fibre and matrix, to be meshed independently. Since the two constituents can be meshed independently a contiguous mesh is not required and the time taken to create an acceptable mesh is significantly reduced. The embedded element technique has been used to model fibre-reinforced composite structures, however, to date no studies have been conducted which combine the embedded element technique with an interlaminar damage model. The work described herein evaluates the ability of the embedded element technique to predict mode I interlaminar failure. DCB specimens were modelled using the embedded element method and a traditional 3D solid FE modelling approach with the predictions compared against experimental data. Both modelling approaches provided good agreement with experimental results. The good agreement demonstrates that the embedded element technique is capable of providing a response that is equivalent to a traditional 3D solid FE models and is particularly suited to modelling thick composite structures with complex geometry.